Who:

Why:

The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to educate people about disability employment issues and celebrate the contributions of America's workers with disabilities. This year's theme is "America's Workforce: Empowering All".

About National Disability Employment Awareness Month

The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October of each year "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways they can promote its messages - during October and throughout the year - by visiting www.dol.gov/ndeam .